superplasticizer
Sign in to saveSuperplasticizers (SPs), also known as high-range water reducers (HRWRs), are additives used for making high-strength concrete or to place self-compacting concrete. Plasticizers are chemical compounds enabling the production of concrete with approximately 15% less water content. Superplasticizers allow reduction in water content by 30% or more. These additives are employed at the level of a few weight percent. Plasticizers and superplasticizers also retard the setting and hardening of concrete.
~5 min read
Article
6 sectionsContents
- Working mechanism
- Common superplasticizer types
- See also
- References
- Further reading
- External links
Superplasticizers (SPs), also known as high-range water reducers (HRWRs), are additives used for making high-strength concrete or to place self-compacting concrete. Plasticizers are chemical compounds enabling the production of concrete with approximately 15% less water content. Superplasticizers allow reduction in water content by 30% or more. These additives are employed at the level of a few weight percent. Plasticizers and superplasticizers also retard the setting and hardening of concrete.
According to their dispersing functionality and action mode, one distinguishes two classes of superplasticizers: Ionic interactions (electrostatic repulsion): lignosulfonates (first generation of ancient water reducers), sulfonated synthetic polymers (naphthalene, or melamine, formaldehyde condensates) (second generation), and; Steric effects: Polycarboxylates-ether (PCE) synthetic polymers bearing lateral chains (third generation).